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Bridge conflict persists: dual train rails still present at Marienbrücke

Dresden Marienbrücke's traffic lane controversy: Mayor Hilbert announces no changes to current traffic management, as of his decision on Wednesday.

Bridge Dispute Persists: Remnants of Two Vehicle Tracks Found on Marienbrücke
Bridge Dispute Persists: Remnants of Two Vehicle Tracks Found on Marienbrücke

Bridge conflict persists: dual train rails still present at Marienbrücke

In the heart of Dresden, the Elbe River's crossings have become a subject of significant interest following the collapse of the Carolabridge and the recent reopening of the Terrassenufer. As a result, all road traffic in the city is currently routed to cross the Marienbrücke bridge.

The mayor, along with city officials, is seeking solutions for traffic management that do not negatively impact any type of traffic in Dresden. Currently, the Marienbrücke bridge is the sole crossing point for vehicles, consolidating traffic flows there until further developments.

The collapse of the Carolabridge has shifted traffic pressure to the Marienbrücke, making it the critical crossing over the Elbe for road traffic for now. The reopening of Terrassenufer complements the overall network but does not appear to redistribute through-traffic away from Marienbrücke yet.

There are no alternative or newly planned detour routes mentioned for Dresden traffic, unlike the situation for freight near the Czech border. The potential impact of Terrassenufer's reopening on traffic flow, especially on the Marienbrücke, is uncertain.

The Dresden Marienbrücke remains unchanged in terms of traffic management, with two lanes for cars heading stadteinwärts and one lane each going onto the 26er Ring and Terrassenufer. However, the traffic management on the Marienbrücke will need to be adjusted to accommodate the reopening of Terrassenufer, but the specific changes are yet to be determined.

Mayor Hilbert has made a decisive move regarding the traffic lanes on the Marienbrücke, rejecting the idea of marking off the track area for trams due to concerns about increased congestion in the city. The loss of the Carolabridge affects all road users in Dresden, and the mayor is keen on maintaining a balanced traffic flow across all modes of transport.

The Dresden Marienbrücke remains the city's most important Elbe crossing, serving as a vital artery for both local and through-traffic. The city council recommended maintaining the current traffic management status quo on the Marienbrücke at its meeting on June 19, 2025.

As we move towards September, when Terrassenufer is expected to reopen, a reassessment of traffic management on the Marienbrücke will be necessary to ensure smooth flow of traffic in the city. For updates beyond August 2025 or specific future construction or traffic planning documents, checking official Dresden municipal sources or transport authorities directly would be advisable.

[1] Source: Dresden City Council Meeting Minutes, June 19, 2025.

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